Caramel Pretzel Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This caramel pretzel ice cream is the perfect dessert for anyone craving something a little different. The salty crunch of pretzels contrasts wonderfully with the smooth, buttery caramel ice cream, while the caramel swirl adds a touch of sweetness that ties everything together. It’s a fun twist on traditional ice cream, offering both texture and flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s no-churn, meaning you don’t need an ice cream maker to make this delicious treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup mini pretzels, crushed

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Additional caramel sauce for swirls (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. You can do this with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Gently fold the caramel mixture into the whipped cream until fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.

4. Crush the mini pretzels into small pieces (you can place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or use a food processor).

5. Fold the crushed pretzels into the ice cream mixture, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top.

6. Transfer the ice cream mixture into a loaf pan or another freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula.

7. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top and swirl it into the ice cream with a knife or skewer.

8. Sprinkle the remaining crushed pretzels over the top and gently press them into the ice cream.

9. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Freezing time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Variations

• Caramelized Pretzels: For an extra touch of flavor, caramelize the pretzels by tossing them in melted butter and a bit of sugar before adding them to the ice cream.

• Chocolate Chips: Add some mini chocolate chips or chunks to the mix for a chocolatey twist.

• Swirl variations: Use different swirls like fudge, peanut butter, or even marshmallow for a unique flavor combo.

• Vegan version: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. Replace the caramel with a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For the best texture, make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or wax paper before sealing the container.

• Reheating: No reheating is necessary for ice cream! Just allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it’s too hard to scoop.

FAQs

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes! This recipe is no-churn, meaning you don’t need an ice cream maker. The whipped cream gives it a light, fluffy texture, while the freezing process makes it firm.

How do I make the caramel sauce from scratch?

To make homemade caramel sauce, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar melts and turns amber. Add 1/2 cup heavy cream and stir until smooth. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up. Let it cool before using.

Can I use regular pretzels instead of mini pretzels?

Yes, regular pretzels can be used, but be sure to crush them into small pieces to ensure they mix well with the ice cream. Mini pretzels are easier to incorporate, but any pretzel variety works!

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works great for this recipe and saves time. Just choose a high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor.

How long does it take for the ice cream to freeze?

This ice cream takes about 4 hours to freeze until firm, but it’s best to freeze it overnight for the best texture and consistency.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This ice cream can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, making it a great dessert to prepare for parties or gatherings.

Can I add other mix-ins to the ice cream?

Yes, you can customize this ice cream with other mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or even toffee pieces to complement the caramel and pretzels.

How do I store the ice cream?

Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To prevent freezer burn, cover the surface of the ice cream with plastic wrap before sealing the container.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free pretzels. Be sure to check the packaging to ensure the pretzels are certified gluten-free if that is a concern.

Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

Yes, you can substitute coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative.

Conclusion

Caramel pretzel ice cream is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty, making it a dessert everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or serving it at a special event, this no-churn ice cream is sure to be a crowd favorite. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be making this indulgent treat again and again.